As the CS2 meta normalizes, we start to figure out which works and what doesn’t. I’ve already spent most of my early Premier games experimenting with each weapon and seeing which one’s the most effective. Today, I’ll be sharing my findings along with the meta picks in my best CS2 weapons 2024 tier list.
| Photo | Weapon | Tier | Price | Magazine Size | Base Damage |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | AK-47 | S | $2,700 | 30/90 | 36 |
 | M4A1-S | S | $2,900 | 20/80 | 38 |
 | AWP | S | $4,750 | 5/30 | 115 |
 | M4A4 | A | $3,100 | 30/90 | 33 |
 | Desert Eagle | A | $700 | 7/35 | 53 |
 | AUG | A | $3,300 | 30/90 | 28 |
 | MAC-10 | A | $1,050 | 30/100 | 29 |
 | XM1014 | A | $2,000 | 7/32 | 20 |
 | MP9 | B | $1,250 | 30/120 | 26 |
 | USP-S | B | Free | 12/24 | 35 |
 | Galil AR | B | $1,800 | 35/90 | 30 |
 | Tec-9 | B | $500 | 18/90 | 33 |
AK-47
Up first is none other than the trusty T-side rifle, the AK-47. The AK-47 is hands down the best weapon because of its ability to one-tap enemies at any range. It offers one of the highest base damage in-game and is more economically friendly than its other rifle counterparts.
The AK-47 has a good rate of fire, a large magazine size, and a fast reload speed. What else could you look for in a rifle? This is why CT’s often pick up dropped AK-47s, even though they spent more money on their M4 rifles.
M4A1-S
The silenced brother of the M4A4 enters CS2 with a huge bang as it edges out the competition. The pro scene already widely used the gun, even in CS:GO, but casual players didn’t. The trend seems to have finally caught on, and players have learned that the M4A1-S is simply the superior CT rifle.
It provides an easier recoil to control, making it highly effective in medium to long-range fights. But what truly makes the M4A1-s standout is its cost-efficient pricing. At $2,900 credits, it gives CTs enough headroom to purchase extra smokes or other grenades while still maintaining solid econ for future rounds.
AWP
The AWP is such an iconic weapon that you instantly think of CS whenever it’s brought up. Despite being a costly investment, teams take the time to build their economy around the AWP. It can singlehandedly take over the game when placed in the right player’s hands.
In CS2, the AWP meta has lost a bit of steam. While it’s still a powerful weapon and remains in the S-tier, it’s noticeably easier to counter now, and the economic ramifications of losing with an AWP are more profound. However, it remains a go-to choice for those long-range battles.
M4A4
I can’t leave the more popular CT rifle too far behind. Players prefer it over the M4A1-S because of its faster fire rate, resulting in higher damage in close ranges. It also has a more forgiving nature because of the larger magazine size, leaving plenty left in the tank despite encountering multiple enemies.
Luckily, the new CS2 loadout system allows players to take both the M4A4 and the M4A1-S into battle. This way, you can flawlessly switch between weapons, depending on your needs or preferred playstyle.
Desert Eagle
Next up, we have the go-to pistols during save rounds and for those confident enough in their aim. The Desert Eagle, more commonly known as the Deagle, is the most powerful pistol in the game, requiring only one headshot to kill at most ranges.
The Deagle can be quite hard to master, though. If you miss, you’re probably going to end up dead. But its cheap price, high damage output, great penetration, and long-range effectiveness can result in some pretty sick outplays. Maybe it’s time to dedicate more aim training hours to master the Deagle.
AUG
Another rifle makes an appearance on our list. This time, it also comes with a scope. The SG 553 is another T-side exclusive weapon that can kill enemies with one shot to the head. It’s a bit more expensive than the old and reliable AK-47, but it has a tighter recoil pattern and is better for long-range battles.
Of course, this CS:GO weapon does have some drawbacks. Compared to other rifles, it has a slower rate of fire, offers less mobility, and lower base damage. However, it’s a great weapon for beginners and is great at holding angles, thanks to the added scope.
MAC-10
The rise of the run-and-gun meta is evident in CS2; nothing reflects this more than the prevalence of SMGs. The cheap and fast-firing MAC-10 can easily outclass more expensive rifles in up-close battles, easily turning the tides during supposedly save rounds.
The MAC-10 isn’t without its flaws, though. An entire clip can be unleashed within a few sprays, leaving little ammo left if you encounter multiple enemies. It’s also unreliable in medium-range battles, making your attack routes a bit predictable. There’s still no denying that it provides incredible value at $1,050 credits, though.
XM1014
While this entry may surprise most, having the automatic shotgun can prove to be a worthy ally on specific maps. It’s handy on the CT side when you’re a little low on funds but don’t want to go on a full save. I’ve personally abused the XM1014 a bunch of times just to stop the enemies from rushing.
The XM1014 can be used to hold tight corners and surprise enemies with a splash of shells in their faces. However, it can also be used as a run-and-gun weapon in close to medium-range situations. If you’re thinking that it only applies to low elo matches – you’re wrong. It’s also used by pros, proving how great the weapon is across all skill levels.
MP9
Of course, Terrorists can’t have all the run-and-gun action to themselves. The MP9 is another cheap yet effective SMG that has entered the meta in CS2. It excels in close-quarters combat, helping you get a quick kill or two, along with a weapon upgrade to finish the round off.
Like most SMGs, it struggles in longer ranges, leaving you to rely heavily on close corners and tight angles. Luckily, this is easier to achieve when defending sites. All you have to do is have the MP9 in hand and wait for enemies to come and spray your heart away.
USP-S
The USP-S is an alternative spawn pistol to the P2000 for CTs. It’s surprising to see a free weapon that has so much potential like the USP-S. Headshots will automatically kill enemies that don’t have armor but will leave them limping if they do.
The USP-S is perfect if you’re looking for a dependable sidearm at range and something you can rely on during clutch situations. Thanks to the silencer, its shots are highly accurate and leave no traces. If you haven’t switched your starting CT pistol to the USP-S, I highly suggest doing it now.
Galil AR
If you’re stuck choosing between an SMG or a rifle, consider going for the Galil AR. Its resurgence comes from its great fit within the run-n-gun meta. It has a greater fire rate than the AK-47, along with more bullets, allowing you to keep up with those pesky SMGs.
The Galil AR is perfect for those half-buy rounds since it gives you a fighting chance against more powerful rifles. It’s also a go-to choice for beginners, thanks to the easy recoil control that pretty much anyone can follow. It may not have the ability to one-tap like the AK-47, but it does have its own shining moments.
Tec-9
Finally, we’ve come down to the end with the often undervalued Tec-9. The Tec-9 may not seem like much, but it’s one of the best pistols in CS2. Using its great armor penetration, it can two-tap enemies, even those wearing helmets.
Fitting with the going theme of run-n-gun, the Tec-9 offers crazy good running accuracy. This, combined with the ability to one-shot through helmets at close range, makes it a deadly weapon at only $500. With a Tec-9 in hand, you’ll often end up with a weapon upgrade, courtesy of the enemy.
Conclusion
I believe the AK-47 is an unbeatable weapon in CS2. I mean, insane one-taps? Check. Cheap price? Check. Iconic status? Double-check. What more can you ask for in a gun? The awesome AK-47 skins are just a plus at this point.
